Outdoor Grills Ultimate Guide

Types of Outdoor Grills available can confuse you. If you will like to buy the best, then you need to compare different types of outdoor grills available and go for one which will assure you great services. You will find pellets grills, gas powered and electric powered among others. If you love preparing BBQs, then you already know the role of quality grills in preparing BBQs. There are others which combine other functions such as acting as smokers as well as ovens.

Types of Outdoor Grills

1. Wood pellets grills

Just like the name suggests, wood pellets grills are powered by wood pellets. You can have hardwood pellets or softwood. There are different designs of the pellets. Others can feed pellets automatically while others will require your attention. You need to choose wood pellets grills basing on the needs you will like to achieve. If you will like to grill a lot of meat, then it is preferred for you to go for those which have high capacity.

Benefits of using wood pellets grills

No formation of heterocyclic mines

HCAs are formed when cooking meat at high temperature. They are dangerous to your health because they are linked to cancer formation. The high temperature experienced in gas grills and charcoal fired grills expose users to dangers of cancer. This makes wood pellets grills healthier than other types of grills

Good flavor

Wood pellets come with different flavors originating from their parent wood. For example, you may like to enjoy the flavor of apple on your meat. Wood pellets makes you will achieve such flavor if you will resort to wood pellets grills. Some people even spread wood pellets on charcoal to achieve the desired flavor.

Little ash production by high quality wood pellets

Heats up within a few minutes

Easy control of temperature basing on brands

Vary in size hence accommodates different budgets

Wood pellet are cheaper when compared to other sources of power

Types of food which can be prepared by wood powered grills

Grilled beef, mutton and goat meat

Burgers

Chicken breasts

Rib-eye steak

Pork baby back ribs

Our top wood pellets grill

Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill

Outdoor Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill

Pro series is among the best wood pellets grills you can go for. The grill has digital pro controller which makes it easy to cook food. It has automatic feeding auger. The process of setting up is very easy. Other features available on the grill include 884 square inches of grilling space, bronze LED finish, and automate feature.

Why you should buy Traeger Pro pelelts grill

Digitally controlled thermostat

This makes it easy for you to set the preferred temperature according to your recipe.

BTU of 36000

Easy to clean up

2 meat probes

2. Charcoal Grill as an Option in the Types of Outdoor Grills

Charcoal grill are among types of outdoor grills which have been in the market for a long period of time. They are a bit messy due to ash production, but many people prefer them due to high heat production. Charcoal barbecue produces quality food with great flavor. If you love charka grills, there are many brands you can choose from.

Benefits of cooking on a charcoal grills

Simplicity – it is very simple, just a metal box to hold your hot charcoal. This eliminates need of expensive repairs which are common on automated types of grills.

Easy of use –After you lit the charcoal you are ready to go

Very safe

Adds flavor to food

Economical due to the price of charcoal

Inexpensive

Disadvantages of charcoal grills

Charcoal is messy

Hard when it comes to starting the fire

Tips when buying charcoal grill

Form of the grill

The best charcoal grills are made in form of a kettle. They have a grate at the bottom to hold the coal and the cooking grate which is placed on top of the grill.

Size

If you will like to use the grill in a restaurant setting, then you will have to prepare a lot of food. You need a large grill to accommodate your needs. If you will like to use it in a camping adventure, then go for portable lightweight charcoal grill.

Features

Although charcoal grills are quite simple, there are some features which can make your cooking easier. For example, you need side tables to place cooked food. Hinge access door for charcoal among other features. An inbuilt thermostat will allow you know the right temperature to start cooking.

Additional Cooking Styles

There are some charcoal grills which can serve both as smokers, rotisserie and ovens. You will save money if you will buy one which can accomplish several tasks.

Our top choice of Charcoal Grill review

Weber 16401001 Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 26-Inch, Black

Outdoor Weber 16401001 Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill

The Weber 16401001 is a charcoal grill featuring 508 square inch cooking space. It is a durable and long lasting kettle shaped charcoal grill. The grill features a stainless steel easy to clean surface. Inbuilt thermometer makes it easy to maintain the right temperature when cooking. The cash catcher is removable for easy cleaning.

Features of Weber 16401001 grill

Rust resistant aluminum

Removable Ash tray

Integrated tool hook

Easy assembly

3. Gas Grill

The Gas grills are among the types of outdoor grills which are fueled by propane tank. They are the most easy to clean. If you need fast cooking, gas grills are the best. There are others which come with rotisserie attachment for you to achieve both grilling and rotisserie. Should I buy a gas grill? This is a question you already have an answer. The choice will be determined by the needs you will like to fulfill. Here are some of the reasons which can make you buy a gas grill.

Benefits of buying gas grill

Easy to use: It is very easy to light a gas grill. In a matter of seconds the fire will be ready for you to prepare food.

Quick – Other types of grills will take a long period of time before they can achieve the preferred temperature for your food grilling. With a gas grill it will take a matter of seconds. It is also very easy to clean.

Many Features- When comparing charcoal grills with gas grills, you will find gas options having many features. For example, you can have side burners for pot cooking. They also have inbuilt motorized rotisseries among other features for fast cooking.

Natural Gas Option – Some people will like to convert their propane powered to gas option, most gas grills can be converted to natural gas option by just plugging in to your home gas line. This will reduce pollution as natural gas is cheaper and burns clean.

Infrared Burners – If you will like to achieve fast cooking, you can utilize infrared cooking option available in modern brands of gas grills. Infrared heating conserves all juices in the meat while cooking.

Disadvantages of a Gas Grill or Barbecue

No Wood Smoke Flavor – Charcoal or wood will add flavor to the meat cooking. This is due to the flavorful smoke produced. If you really like to have a specific wood flavor, you can go for gas grill designs which have chambers where you can add wood pellets for the flavorful smoke.

Running Out of Propane – A gas grill will come with a propane tank which needs to be refilled. If you have a portable model, it can run out when preparing large amounts of food.

Our top choice of Gas Grill

Genesis 6570001 gas grill uses liquid propane as a source of fuel. It comes with 3 stainless burners, center mounted thermometer and painted aluminum edges. Porcelain enameled grease tray and other useful features. There is a fuel gauge for you to avoid running out of fuel blindly. It has a total of 637 square inches of cooking area.

Benefits of buying Weber Genesis 6570001 gas grill

Stainless tell flavorizer bars

Individual electronic ignition system

6 tool hooks for convent tool handling

Warming rack for you to keep food warm before serving

4. Natural Gas Grill

These Types of Outdoor Grills will easily plug into your natural gas line. This avoids you the cost of having to buy new propane gas tanks. You will not have to worry of running out of gas in the middle of your dinner party. Natural gas burns clean hence it is better for the environment. You can convert a propane grill or just buy one which has been made to specifically work with natural gas.

Pros of buying natural gas grill

Conserves the environment- Natural gas burns clean; this helps in conserving the environment

Cheaper-he cost of running a natural gas powered grill is cheaper when compared to other models such as electric powered

Convenient-you will not have to worry of running out of propane in the middle of your food preparation

5. Marine/ pontoon grill

Selecting a Marine Grill

When cruising you need food. Be it a small boat, a cruise ship or a yacht. There are marine grills which have been deigned to make it easy for you to prepare food. The grills can be mounted on the stern rail or on the gunwale. You will find marine grills made in such a way they will utilize energy effectively and assure you quality cooking. There are several factors you need to consider when buying marine grill. Here are some of the factors you need to take into consideration:

Stainless steel housing of marine grill

The marine grills are made out of stainless steel covering. This is to ensure the grease does not leak hence making your deck dirty. They are double walled so that the outside will be safe for you to touch. It is always necessary for you to go for marine grade stainless steel which will assure you long life.

Propane vs. charcoal marine grill

You will have marine barbecues fueled by gas, propane or charcoal. Gas marine grills will tend to cost more and are fitted with more features. You can as well go for inexpensive charcoal grill but it will limit you on some uses. Natural gas powered burns green.

Canister or hose on the marine grill

You can mount the marine gas powered grills to your standard propane canister or connect to the LPG system of the boat. The canisters are very convenient when going ashore. They have been designed to be easy and safe to connect.

Push-button ignition

When in some marine environment, it will be very hard for you to access sources of electricity or heat to ignite the system. A push button ignition design powered by piezo crystal will make it easy when trying to prepare food at sea. Piezo crystal use mechanical deformation to produce electric spark irrespective of the temperature of the surrounding. You can easily start the grill on frozen seas provided you utilize the technology.

What form factor, round or rectangular?

You can find marine grills in rectangular or round shapes. Round grills will reflect heat and avoid wind resistance. Rectangular models are larger hence suitable for those who will like to prepare large amounts of food while at sea. There are others which can perform several functions. For example, they can fry food, simmer and boil apart from barbecuing.

Do you want an infrared marine barbecue?

These are grills which have been fitted with infrared features. The technology makes it easy to cook food fast.

What kind of mount do you need? Is it included or optional?

You will need mountings for you to use the grill on your boat. Some brands will come with mounts. There are others which will require you to buy the mounts separately. This reflects to the amount of money you will spend. Just compare the cost of buying separately and together for you to make a good decision.

Safe barbecuing tips on a boat

Always use heat settings which are not too high

Have a water spray bottle nearby to avoid flare ups

Avoid using the barbecue while the lid is closed

Always light the grill when the lid is open

Trim fat from the meat to reduce flare-ups

Use non-oil based marinades

Tips when keeping your marine barbecue clean

Exterior: After each use, clean the exterior of your grill and cover it using a marine grill cover.

Interior: Remove any heavy residue on the grill and grease tray after each use. Disassemble the grill and clean it at least once each year.

Grates: To prevent food from sticking, coat the grates with vegetable oil before you start using. Clean using a brass wire while the grill is hot. Wash with soapy water before long term storage.

Ceramic electrode: Locate the electrode beside the burner. It should be free of grease and debris. Avoid bending the wire or damaging the ceramic insulation when washing the marine grill.

Control valve: Avoid adjusting or disassembling. Use a pin or needle to remove obstruction from orifice.

Never clean marine barbecue with abrasive cleaners or steel wool. They can clog the orifice.

Our top pick of pontoon/ marine grill

Electric-chef island marine 48 in. built-in electric grill

Island Marine 48 in. Built-In Electric Grill

If you will like to roast meat which falls off the bone such as chicken, the grill will ensure the meat is intact. They use electricity to generate heat. This makes it easy to set low heat required to cook burger and retain the juices. The dual controls make it easy to set the right temperature. The dual controls make it possible to prepare different types of food at once. It has been constructed to last longer. The grill comes when fully assembled. This avoids you the hustle of trying to piece it together.

Pros of buying Electric-Chef Island Marine grill

Dual burner for easy control

1,056-square-inch cooking surface to accommodate tons of food

Constant temperature for consistent cooking

Warming rack to keep food warm while other foods cook

6. The Natural Gas Grill

Natural gas grills are among top choices of outdoor chefs. There are some kits which can be fitted to propane powered grills to convert them to gas models. Propane gas cannot be used in natural gas grills directly. You need a regulator which will reduce the amount of gas flow. This is necessary because propane burns 3 times hotter than natural gas. Natural gas burns cleanly hence it will make you among those who contribute towards conserving the environment.

Advantages of a natural gas grill

No more running out of fuel- You will have it connected to your natural gas line. This is unlike propane which can run out hence you have to refill. When comparing to charcoal, it burns faster hence you need to restock after a short while.

It is cheaper when compared to other forms of fuel

Burns cleaner

Easy on, Easy off –No dusty or stress while trying to put it on or off. Just a switch of a button and it will go off.

Electronic Crossover ignition system which starts with the push of a button

7. The best Smoker Grill

A smoker grill will make it easy for you to prepare smoked food. What is the difference between smoking food and barbecuing? They are almost similar, but in smoking foods are prepared at low temperate for a long period of time. This helps in preparing tender meat.

What is smoker cooking?

The main purpose of smoker cooking is to let heat penetrate into the meat as well as smoke. Smoke makes the food tender while leaving the flavor of smoke. There are some wood spices which have specific flavors. The process of smoking food helps in making the wood flavor part of the smoked meat. Smokers work in such a way they will enclose heat and food in a smoked area. The smoke aids in adding flavor and romantic smell to the food.

Common woods used in smokers

Mesquite

Hickory

Apple wood

Smoking of food can be achieved through use of grills which have smokers as part of their features. But, you can as well buy a specific grill which has been designed to help you smoke food. The smokers will prepare barbecue but they have a chimney which will direct concentrated smoke to the cooking chamber. This makes it possible for the smoke flavor to get absorbed into the food.

Our top choice of Smoker Grill

This is a two in one smoker. You will smoke food as well as barbecue. It has great features which make it among our top choice. Among people whom we interviewed, most of them offered great reviews about the smoker.

Advantages of YOYO 684SQIN smoker

684 sq. in. Grilling Area

Main Rack: 25.9″ x 19.3

Extra Rack: 27.4″ x 6.7″

Comes with LED Digital Temperature control system

Barrel Shape Creating a vortex of convection

Durable Materials: Porcelain, Cast Iron and Removable Grids

3 Years warranty

6-in-1 cooking capability: grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise and BBQ

20 LB hopper

Easy to assemble

8. Terra Cotta or Ceramic Grill

Ceramic grills are among the types of outdoor grills which are inexpensive. They are popular in many parts of the world. This is due to the belief that porcelain will not expose you to dangers of metals used in the metallic grills. They have both advantages as well as disadvantages. Some of the advantages of porcelain grills include fast grilling in small families and cheaper.

Benefits of TerraCotta Pig Grill

Popular brands of terracotta pig grills include the big green egg grill. They are made out of ceramic construction which is very ideal for temperature control and retaining moisture. Terracotta is the best choice for juicy, succulent and grilled foods.

Advantages of a TerraCotta grill

Inexpensive: They cost less than $40. Their operation is simple, you will just add charcoal and you will be free to start barbecuing.

Portable: You can carry the grills to campsites, peach, park or any other areas due to their light weight.

Weather-Proof: The ceramic used to make the grill is very durable. It will not be corroded by weather agents. You only have to take good care of metal grate fitted in the grill.

Easy to Clean: They don’t catch stains. Just wait for it to cool and pour ash. You will be ready to grill again.

Good for Basic Direct Heat Cooking: They give direct and intense heat which is suitable for grilling foods such as burgers, sausages, hotdogs and simple barbecues.

Disadvantages of a Terra Cotta Grill

General Small Size: They are generally small. These restrict them to small cooking. You will be comfortable to grill a single steak or few burgers at a time. It will work well for small families.

No Lid: They lack a lid. These make them unsuitable for slow roasting or indirect heat cooking. It will restrict you to foods which will require searing such as hot dogs, steaks and sausages.

Breakable: Drop down your ceramic grill and you will need a new one. You should be careful and avoid dropping hard tools in it due to the fragile nature of the material.

Top rated: Best ceramic grill

Pit Boss 71220 Kamado BBQ Ceramic Grill Cooker, 22″

Boss 71220 Kamado BBQ Ceramic Grill Cooker

The Pit Boss 71220 Kamado BBQ Ceramic Grill is made to assure you world class chef cooking in your backyard. Modern ceramic cooker has been made to assure users great versatility, quality and beauty at their backyards when preparing food. The heat produced radiates back to your food making it perfect for cooking. It can be used to cook different types of foods such as pizza, roast turkey, smoked ribs, burgers, and vegetables among other types of food.

Pros of Pit Boss 71220 Kamado BBQ Ceramic Grill

Thick ceramic walls

Superior temperature control

567sq inches of 2 tier cooking surface

High-quality solid stainless steel cooking grid

Heavy duty hardware

Fire proof felt edge and a shock absorber

Dual folding wooden shelves

Full control over air flow

Bamboo side shelves fold easily for storage

9. Electric Grill

If you are bored of the hassle associated with charcoal, wood pellets, propane tanks and natural gas, then you will find electric grills very helpful. Charcoal or gas can be messy in your outdoor cooking, but electricity makes things very easy for you. There are several models of electric grills available for you to make the right decision.

Advantages of an Outdoor Electric Grill

No Fuel Needed

You will not need propane tank, wood or charcoal when comparing an electric grill. You will only and a source of electricity and the grill will assure you continuous cooking without worry of running out of fuel or getting dirty. If you live in a place with stable electricity supply, you will make great success in your backyard cooking after you buy the electric powered grill.

Quick and Easy

You will just plug and turn on power and the electric grill will start cooking. This is the easiest grill you can ever have in your patio.

Less Mess

No dust or smoke will affect you after you buy the grill. The electric grill is clean and easy to start. There are no left over ash. You will only clean grease from the crate and that is all.

Disadvantages of Outdoor Electric Grill

You Need an Electrical Outlet

If your outdoor is not connected to electricity, then you need a long cord to your interior socket. This can be a bit hectic. If you are camping in a remote location where there is no electric connection, you can’t prepare food with an electric grill.

No Wood Smoke Flavor

Some people enjoy flavored meat. If you are among them, you will hardly enjoy wood flavor while cooking on an electric grill. You may be required to go for extra accessories such as a smoker box before you can add smoking wood.

Smaller Size on Average

Most electric grills are smaller in size. If you will like to prepare small amount of food, then you will find them helpful. For large amounts of food, then you will have to go for a large model.

Less widely available

You will find plenty of charcoal and gas grill in the market which is unlike electric models.

Our top choice of electric grill review

Kenyon B70400 Texan All Seasons Built-In Electric Grill

Texan All Seasons Built-In Electric Grill

Kenyon B70400 Texan is among the best electric grills you can ever buy. This is a signature grill produced by Kenyon. It has two separate heating controls. This makes it possible to cook two different types of foods at two different temperatures. The split lid design makes it easy to prevent heat loss from one cooking champer. You can wash it in your dish washer.

10. Barbecue Rotisserie

With a rotisserie you will not have to turn pieces of meat while roasting. It has a rotating split which will turn the meat as you roast them. This results to even roasted meat which has great flavor. Your large roasts will retain their succulent and tender nature while roasting. This is among the types of outdoor grills you should check out.

The best Barbecue Rotisserie

What is a rotisserie barbecue? This is a grill with inbuilt rotisserie where you can attach meat for roasting purposes. You can convert any type of grill to accommodate rotisserie feature, but it will be advisable for you to buy a custom made. The grill rotisseries are great addition to outdoor grilling. A rotisserie has many advantages over a grill when roasting succulent cuts of meat. It is among the best grills which retain as much fluid as possible when roasting meat. The steady rotation of rotisseries ensures even cooking of meat.

Benefits of using a Barbecue Rotisserie

Even Cooking

You will see rotisseries cooking meat in most supermarkets. This is because they assure even cooking of large pieces of meat. Your poultry meat will be cooked evenly for you to enjoy a tasty meal.

Less Work

You will have the rotisseries turning the meat. Cases where you will be exposed to high temperature will not be there. As a chef you can concentrate in cooking other meals while the meat roasts perfectly.

Ability to Roast Large Cuts of Meat

If you will like to cook large pieces of meat such as a leg of a lamb, whole poultry and pork loins, the rotisseries is among the best methods. It is easy and guarantees even cooking.

Disadvantages of a Barbecue Rotisserie

Not Universally Available

The only big disadvantage of the rotisserie is that they are not readily available. You will find them fitted on gas grills and some electric models. If you will like to have it on a charcoal grill or fire pit, you will have to order a custom made.

Cost

Grills with inbuilt rotisserie tend to cost more. If you will like to save more, you will have to think twice.

Our top choice of Barbecue Rotisserie

The Lynx grill is made out of steel. This assures you long life. The rotisseries fitted have a powerful motor which ensures even rotating of the meat for even cooking. The design allows deflection of wind as a way of trying to keep off heat loss.

11. Portable Grill

If you love travelling, then your big grill at home may not serve you outdoors. You will still enjoy your favorite roast meat while camping if you will buy portable grills. Other areas where you can use your best portable grill include parks, beach camping, lakeside, summer country cabin among other areas.

Types of portable grills

Portable charcoal grill

Electric portable grills

Portable gas grills

Portable ceramic grill

There are restrictions put in place on how you can use fire pits or grills in camping grounds. Check on the regulations to avoid being on the wrong side of the law while using your portable grill.

Benefits of buying a portable grill

Helps you cook quality food just like the way you prepare them when at home

Makes your picnic or camping at the beach enjoyable

Fits easily I he trunk of your car

Smaller versions can be carried in backpacks hence suitable for hiking

Our top choice of Portable Grill

NXR 2 Burner Portable Propane Gas Grill

Portable Propane Gas Grill

If you love camping or road trips, this is the best for you to buy. Your tailgate party will never base the same again after buying this burner. The gas grill has a total cooking area of 256.5 in². Push and turn ignition system makes it very easy to start the gas grill. Durable steel burners provide 20,000 BTU of intense heat. The grill will not limit you on the type of food you can cook. It will serve all your outdoor cooking needs.

12. Built in Grill

If you have a big backyard and pool site, you will find built-in outdoor grill among the best option. The grill will be permanently installed on your backyard. Inbuilt grills are available in both natural gas and propane models. You will have a place to relax with your family members outdoors after you install this type of grill.

13. Homemade Grill

You may feel like the already existing grills in the market are not serving you well. Then you can have your own custom-made grill at home. Just ensure you hire the best grill constructor and follow all safety standards. Homemade grills are among types of outdoor grills which can be made to utilize any available source of power.